i

Water and Environmental Studies

Department of Thematic Studies

Linköping University

Understanding of the value of ecosystem services for more

sustainable water strategy.

A case study of Water quality of the Lake Vänern in Kristinehamn

Municipality

Prudence Kwizera

ISRN: LIU-TEMAV/MPSSD-A--11/002--SE

Linköpings Universitet

ii

Water and Environmental Studies

Department of Thematic Studies

Linköping University

Understanding of the value of ecosystem services for more

sustainable water strategy.

A case study of Water quality of the Lake Vänern in Kristinehamn Municipality

Prudence Kwizera

Master’s programme

Science for Sustainable Development

Master’s Thesis, 30 ECTS credits

Supervisor: Anna Jonsson

2011

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© Prudence Kwizera

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Table of Contents

Abstract....................................................................................................................................................1

1. Introduction......................................................................................................................................... 2

1.1. General aspect...................................................................................................................................2

1.2. Aim of the study...............................................................................................................................4

1.3. Research questions............................................................................................................................4

1.4. Description of the study area............................................................................................................5

1.4.1 The current lake management....................................................................................................... 7

1.4.2 The current environment issues................................................................................................... .8

2. Theoretical framework and literature review.................................................................................... 9

2.1 Human well-being and ecosystem services.....................................................................................10

2.2. Valuing ecosystem services and goods................................................................. ...................... .12

2.3 Improving the understanding socio-ecological and economic systems.............. ......................... .14

2.3.1 Economic valuation performance within ecosystem management-a need...... ...........................15

2.3.2 Information on dynamic change of ecosystem and impact –a long term

action.............................................................................................................................. ..................... 16

2.3.2.1 Understanding the environment flows concept as support....................................................... 17

3. Material and methods........................................................................................................................ 19

3.1 Motivation of the study............................................................................................................... ....19

3.2 Research design...............................................................................................................................20

3.2.1Concept from literature..................................................................................................................20

3.2.2 Interview...................................................................................................................................... 20

3.2.3 Limitation of the methodology.....................................................................................................23

4. Results.............................................................................................................................................. .24

4.1 Perceived benefits of the ecosystem services..................................................................................24

4.2 Perception the value of the services................................................................................................26

4.3 Sustainability and strategy viewed by the respondents...................................................................27

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5. Discussion..........................................................................................................................................29

5.1 Functions of the lake for the respondents........................................................... ............................30

5.2 The PES view and willing to participate by the respondents..........................................................30

5.2.1 The PES perceived by the respondents........................................................................................ 31

5.2.2 Community engagement and behavioural changes as a key option.............................................33

5.3 Dynamic change of ecosystem and impact on the lake...................................................................36

6. Conclusion and recommendations.....................................................................................................38

Acknowledgement.................................................................................................................................40

References............................................................................................................................................. 41

Appendix.............................................................................................................................................. .45

List of figures

Figure 1.1 Lake Vänern........................................................................................................6

Figure 1.2 Map of Kristinehamn Municipality....................................................................7

Figure 2.1 Links between ecosystem services and various constituents...............

of human well-being................................................................................................11

Figure 4.1 Number of the participants in according with their preferences...........................25

List of tables

Table 2.1 Valuation methods of ecosystems services and applications.................................13

Table 3.1 Number of participants in each category................................................................22

Table 4. 1 Willing to pay for improving the quality of the lake.............................................27

Table 4.2 Summary discussions on sustainability and strategy options..................................28

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1

Abstract

Natural resources management is one of the world‟s greatest concerns. It is a difficult task

due to its complex nature. Natural resources are limited and scarce. Unfortunately and worst

of all, they are under pressure, and stress due to unprecedented increase in their demand and

inefficient use. But it is still possible to tackle this complex problem. This study focuses on

understanding the value of the ecosystem services that human well-being depend on, as for

more sustainable environment strategy on aquatic ecosystems management, such as lakes and

rivers. Changing behavior and attitude can be a crucial complement and likely can stimulate

our conscious effort towards saving our ecosystems beyond money contribution. This way of

thinking seems to be overlooked and most people think that the development of technology

and advancement in knowledge alone can provide solution. One way to overcome the

problem of pressure and stressing of the environment is to develop adequate strategy and

environmental policy. This policy should include economics measures where, when

necessary and feasible. Since there are “no one solution and no one answer” to achieve the

desired outcome of a sustainable future, it becomes necessary to adopt a multidisciplinary

approach to environmental management and the understanding of the value and dynamism

change of the ecosystem services. Adoption of efficient management is not enough; we have

to adjust our attitude as well. To discuss this issue, the aquatic ecosystem, which the lake

Vänern in Kristinehamn Municipality served as a case study.

Key concepts: Aquatic ecosystem, behavior and attitude, economic value, ecosystems

services, Lake Vänern, Kristinehamn Municipality.

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1. Introduction

1.1 General aspect

“As we enter the 21st century, the well-being and future of humans and biodiversity are more

interdependent than ever before” (Buck et al., 2001). In the same idea, “the humanity is

completely reliant upon nature for their welfare and survival” (Turner et al., 2008). Thus, the

well-being of humans will depend on the manner in which humans view, treat and understand

the environment and its value. Obviously, humans interact with their surroundings and at the

same time recognize the value of the ecosystems functions and their services and benefits,

which they depend on. It sounds that the term “environment value” is a confusing one

(Billgren, 2008). Billgren (2008) explains that, “that is probably because most people think

intuitively they know what it means and hence do not problematize the concept”. “The

environment value means different things to different people, something that becomes

apparent in interdisciplinary research” (Billgren, 2008). Obviously this should be conceived

differently depending of the region and society. It is clear that the western countries‟ view

and vision on the value of our surroundings are different from the South Countries‟

perception. Moreover, the benefits will also vary between different groups and individual

(Forslund et al, 2009). Despite differences on view, wherever you are, the impacts from

environmental degradation have an enormous cost to the society in term of declining profits

and hence the well-being of the people. However, the level to predict and to prevent the

surprises is essential to develop and to improve. Many societies in the world develop their

economical activities unconsciously such as natural resources are permanent or always

available. This implies a change in human behavior and attitude towards the nature. “The

world continues to contain many surprises “(Buck.et al., 2001). “We have invested hundreds

of thousands of scientist-years by now in trying to understand the environment(s) with

implications for how policies and practices can best maintain its (their) vitality and

productivity” (Buck.et al., 2001). Buck et al. (2001) argues that this productivity itself relates

to human needs but also to natural process. Yet these investments seem to be increased and

the initiative should be permanent according to the gradual and dynamics change of the

planet state. Thus the knowledge has its limits and complex problems –complex solutions.

However, it is possible to have useful and valid information and knowledge by adopting the

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interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches. Remaining good observers and not being

blinded by preconceptions is an extremely important strategy.

The natural resources such as water, forest, soil, wetlands degrade progressively as they are

under stress and consumed or used irrationally and not protected. Some signals are already

there such as global warming and others natural disasters such as floods and droughts all over

the world (cases are multiple). Moreover, several regional and international meetings arose

awareness and recommendations towards the World Nation that natural resources are scarce

and limited. The Millennium ecosystem assessment (MEA) which focused on assessment of

ecosystem services and their link to human well-being and development needs was unique.

The MEA was the first assessment to focus on the impacts of ecosystem changes for human

well-being (MEA, 2005). Although the recommendations issued from those meetings are

realistic the human behavior and attitude remain unchanged in many parts of the world.

Beyond a shadow of doubt, the implementations of those theories or recommendations in

practices still again remain weak so that the natural capital and various ecosystems could be

sustained and maintained. This should be everybody‟s concern however. As Bossel (1999)

argues, the human society is a complex adaptive system embedded in another complex

adaptive system-the natural environment –on which it depends for support. Bossel (1999)

articulates that there is a permanent change and evolution. This ability for change and

evolution must be maintained if the systems are to remain viable and sustainable. Thus,

implementation of those recommendation and improvement policy and strategies remains a

challenge in many countries. We have to rethink the way to move on so that the ecosystems

remain in the desired conditions while continuing to benefit the services and goods from them

and maintaining the biodiversity conservation.

From the above ideas, the study is interesting with the aquatic ecosystem, the lake Vänern as

a case study. In fact, the world lakes are more vulnerable ecosystems due to their human

attraction and hence the accumulation of the sediments and others elements from the

upstream are a huge danger for them. Thus, the study aims to investigate how the community

of the Kristinehamn Municipality view and perceive the value of the lake Vänern (fig1.1) as

an aquatic ecosystem which provides them various services and goods for their welfare and

municipality‟s economic development itself. Moreover the study seeks to explore the

understanding of environment flows and methods to capture such benefits.

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1.2 Aim of the study

The proposed research aims to seek how the residents of the Kristinehamn municipality view

and perceive the value of the aquatic ecosystem services derived from Lake Vänern. It

explores the understanding of environment flows and methods to capture such benefits. “It is

generally not price of a commodity that determines its value; instead it is the value the good

has for a person when actually using it that creates the actual value” (Billgren, 2008). Garrod

et al. (1999) argue that a good water quality is important for variety of reasons, not only for

the provisions of water to households and industries, but for recreational purposes as the

growth in the use of freshwater sites for angling, bathing and a variety of water-borne

pursuits increase. The attitude and behaviour of the community has towards this natural

legacy for keeping it healthy while maintaining the biodiversity conservation beside any

strategic plan or policy, are in focus in this study. However, the study doesn‟t attempt to say

that the implementation of the strategic plan and policy as a framework to achieve given

objectives is unnecessary but they can become useless in some circumstances despite their

accompanying measures for action.

1.3 Research questions

The study considered two mainly points of departure to formulate the research questions.

1. There are benefits from increasing understanding of the social and natural interactions

and changing human behaviour/attitude towards the environment.

2. Including the value of the ecosystems services/functions (thus the environment flows)

within natural resources management, strategies/policy guidelines can improve the

understanding of the decision-makers, secure long-term varieties ecosystems services

and support the biodiversity conservation.

Four research questions are interested the study to investigate above two statements:

1. How does the community surrounding the catchment area (in Kristinehamn

municipality) view and perceive the values of the lake Vänern in the framework to

keep it healthy?

2. How would the community react in case the status of the lake is altered in term of both

quality and quantity?

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3. Could be the environment flows concept be a valuable source of maintaining the

aquatic ecosystem healthy (the lake) in the context where community consider that

they have enough much water?

4. Is an economic concept of valuing ecosystem services useful support tool to improve

natural resources management and to raise awareness on sustainable development plan

in the case of Lake Vänern?

1.4 Description of the study area and general information

The area for the research is localized in the western part of Sweden, the Värmland region

with a great lake called Vänern (fig.1.1), the largest lake in Sweden and the third largest lake

in Europe. According to the Lake Vänern‟s Society for Water Conservation and others

Societies( Christensen et al, 2010), it is possible to go surfing in this inland sea; take a swim

among 38 different species of fish, and sail in an archipelago that consists of 22 000 islands,

islets and rocks. The lake Vänern and the Göta älv supply approximately 800 000 persons

with drinking-water. The water and organisms of the lake Vänern are examined several times

a year. For example, 30 ornithologists counts up to 30 000 bird here in June, indicate

Christensen et al. (2010). The study is related to the catchment area in the Kristinehamn

Municipality (Fig.1.2) which includes a part of the lake.

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Fig. 1.1: The lake Vänern. Source: Christensen et al. 2010

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Figure 1.2: Map of Kristinehamn Municipality

1.4.1 The current lake management

The Local Authority, the Municipality has developed a comprehensive policy document

relevant to the management of the Lake Vänern. This document is represented as a long-term

plan for sustainable development, as a basic strategic document. Moreover an overall

objectives outline has been drawn for local municipality development. The Municipality

strives to follow up the EU Water Framework Directive (EU-WFD) which is a concern to

achieve a good water quality status. Actually the Municipality gives a higher priority to

maintain the lake in good quality and focuses their activities in particular in some area such

as Ölmeviken, Varnumsviken, Kilsviken and Kolstrandsviken which suffer from

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eutrophication process. Hence, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in the lake need to be

lowered in order to decrease the eutrophication.

The regional water management plan has been set out and is running within six years (2009-

2015). Moreover a comprehensive policy document at the local level–a long term plan for

sustainable development, is also developed as a guideline and basic document for strategy in

which overall objectives are outlined for the local development of the Kristinehamn

Municipality.

“The increasing recognition that ecosystems perform services to mankind, keeping the planet

fit for living and providing much of our quality of life has led to an ecological approach to

natural resource management that underlies sustainable development”(Acreman, 2001). Thus,

the protection of this aquatic ecosystem (the lake Vänern) in term of its quality and quantity

is a central issue of the municipality. This is done in accordance with the European WFD and

obviously in harmonious regional cooperation.

1.4.2 The current environment issues

Environmental issues of the lake today remain despite enormous progress and extensive

measures carried out to protect this ecosystem against pollution. Thus, the societies for water

conservation and their members including the municipalities work out to improve the quality

of the lake. However, indicates one brochure, many diffuse sources of pollutants remain, such

as leaching from agricultural soils, sewage from rural homes, atmospheric deposition and the

general use of chemicals in society (Christensten et al, 2010).

Current environmental problems are of a more long-term nature, but nevertheless it is

important to take measures to deal with them. However, some reports mention that there is

some overgrowth vegetation in many bays and the cause of this overgrowth is still unclear.

This problem can bring about a loss/decrease of perceived aesthetic value of the water body

and others values of the lake. “Cultural eutrophication (excessive plant growth resulting from

nutrient enrichment by human activity) is the primary problem facing most surface waters

today” (Smith et al., 2009). Smith et al. (2009) add that “it has become the primary water

quality issue for most of the freshwater and coastal marine ecosystem in the world”. Thus the

quality of the lake Vänern constitutes the one of the priority of the Municipality.

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The Ongoing project:

The overgrowth vegetation is one of the municipality‟s concerns. It still needs to investigate

if the cause of the above overgrowth of the vegetation in many bays of the lake Vänern is

relevant to the eutrophication process. “Interactions between nutrients, producers and their

consumers remain poorly understood for most aquatic ecosystems” (Smith et al., 2009). In

general, the lakes are obviously vulnerable reservoirs. They receive an immense flow of

nutrients, and others pollutants from households, industries, use of fertilizers in agriculture.

The lake Vänern which interests the study is facing with the concentration of the nutrients

loads, which lead to proliferation of invasive plants. “Whether stable or not, alternate states

pose important complexities for the management of aquatic resources, and could be one of

the most important issues facing aquatic ecologists today” (Smith et al., 2009). Hence the

project undertaken to manage and protect the lake from the invasive plants is defined as a

long term action.

2. Theoretical framework and Literature review

There is no doubt that managing environmental issues in general and maintaining the

ecosystems in desired ecological conditions are not easy tasks. The human interaction with

natural resources makes the system more complex. “Although natural systems perform many

services and are potentially very valuable, these values have often been ignored, with the

result that degradation of ecosystems has occurred” (Turner, et al., 2008). Many articles have

notified that. O‟Riordan et al. (2002) recall three mainly concern relevant to the ecosystem

management which guided the literature review of the study: “One of the major threats to

ecosystem goods and services is our lack of understanding about how specific ecosystem

functions may change with ecosystem transformation. Another cause for concern is our

hesitation about deciding on options for coping with and ameliorating these fundamental

changes. A third limitation is a lack of knowledge about or incorrect valuation of, the „worth‟

of ecosystem functioning for social well-being and economic advantage”. This demonstrates

again how complex the management of the planet ecosystems and how necessary to imply a

participative and holistic approach to deal with the complexity. The inter- and

transdisciplinarity approach is one way to resolve problem and find out valuables solutions.

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“The rapid disappearance of many ecosystems has raised concerns about the loss of

beneficial services” (Barbier, 2007). This raises two important questions. What are

ecosystem services, and why is it important to value these environmental flows? Those

questions have been underscored by several scientific research articles and journal document

and among others international regional, national meetings and recommendations. Once

more, the study outlines below some general discussions around the question above noted.

2.1 Human well-being and ecosystem services

Goldman (2010) notifies that the proliferation of ecosystems services strategies on the ground

actions but also in the emergence of new offices, new projects and new strategies within

conservation, NGOs, governments, and multilateral donor agencies in the last few years

indicates the awareness promotion on the degradation of the planet ecosystem. Moreover, the

last decade, in 2000, the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA) was called for by the

former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan as main objective to assess the

consequences of ecosystem change for human well-being and the scientific basis for action

needed to enhance the conservation and sustainable use of those systems and their

contribution to human well-being. The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment-the formal

international effort to elevate awareness and understanding of societal dependence on

ecosystem-has suggested four categories (Brauman &al., 2008; MEA, 2003): First,

provisioning services provide goods such as food, freshwater, timber, and fiber for direct

human use; these are a familiar of the economy. Second, and much less widely appreciated,

regulating services maintain a world in which it is biophysically possible for people to live,

providing such benefits as water purification, pollination of crops, flood control, and climate

stabilization. Third, „cultural services‟ make the world a place in which people want to live;

they include recreation as well as aesthetic, intellectual, and spiritual inspiration. Fourth,

„Supporting services‟ create the backdrop for the conditions and processes on which society

depends more directly. Furthermore, it has been defined clearly by MEA (2005) the links

between human well-being and ecosystem services in term of security, basic material for a

good life, health and good social relations (figure 2.1).

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Figure 2.1: Links between ecosystem services and various constituents of human well-being

(adopted by MEA, 2005).

The four constituents contribute to an ultimate human well-being and ecosystem of freedom

of choice and action as indicated at the left of figure 2.1. According to the MEA (2005) the

width colour indicates the relative importance of provisioning, regulating and cultural

ecosystem services to the four well-being groups. For example, provisions of water, flood and

disease regulation are most connected to ensuring basic materials for a good life, health and

security. This diagram adopted by MEA shows clearly that the interconnectedness between

people and nature and the interdependence of our lives on ecosystem-based processes that

create the products we need and use every day.

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2.2 Valuing the ecosystem services and goods

The Millennium Ecosystem assessment (2005) has fundamentally changed the way in which

scientists think about the value of ecosystems. This way of thinking, definitely help to

consider the importance of the ecosystem services and the benefits people derive from them.

“The world's ecosystems are capital assets” (Daily, 1997). Unfortunately, relative to other

forms of capital, ecosystems are poorly understood, scarcely monitored, and (in many cases)

undergoing rapid degradation and depletion. Daily (1997) argues that often the importance of

ecosystem services is widely appreciated only upon their loss. This unfortunately will cost so

much to restore.

Yet as Daily (1997) alludes in the concluding chapter, humanity cannot survive without either

the world‟s ecosystems or a functioning biosphere. In this sense, they have infinite value to

humanity. One of the simplest explanations an economist can use to explain the objective of

economic environmental valuation is to say” as long as we are forced to make choices we are

doing valuation” (Costanza et al., 1997:50). Hence, the value of ecosystem services that

brings about a human well-being is beyond a shadow of a doubt. “The services of the

ecological systems and the natural capital stocks that produce them are critical to the Earth‟s

life-support system” (Costanza, et al. 1997: 253). “They contribute to human welfare, both

directly and indirectly, and therefore represent part of the total economic value of the planet”

(Costanza & al.1997: 253). The concept of the economic value is not a new one. In fact,

Limburg (2009: 25) notes that the concept gained attention during the 1990 as scientists

began to realize that natural ecosystems were being damaged and destroyed by humans at

unprecedented rates, due to the human population growth and the resulting increased

exploitation of natural resources.

Some methods have been developed to evaluate the goods and services derived from

ecological regulation. The table (2.1) indicates such various methods that can be used in

valuing ecosystem services and goods. The application of those methods varies according to

ecosystem services. More discussion details explanation relevant to their application can be

found in the different literatures.

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Table 2.1: Valuation methods of ecosystems services and applications. Source Barbier

(2007).

Valuation

method

Type of

value

estimated

Common types of applications Ecosystem services valued

Travel cost Direct use Recreation Maintenance of beneficial

species, productive ecosystems

and biodiversity

Averting

behavior

Direct use Environmental impacts on human

health

Pollution control and

detoxification

Hedonic Price Direct and

indirect use

Environmental impacts on residential

property and human morbidity and

mortality

Storm protection; flood

mitigation; maintenance of air

quality

Production

function

Indirect use Commercial and recreational fishing;

agricultural systems; control of

invasive species; watershed

protection; damage costs avoided

Maintenance of beneficial

species; maintenance of arable

land and agricultural

productivity; prevention of

damage from erosion and

siltation; groundwater

recharge; drainage and natural

irrigation; storm protection

Replacement

cost

Indirect use Damage costs avoided; freshwater

supply

Drainage and natural irrigation;

storm protection; flood

mitigation.

Stated

Preference

Use and

non-use

Recreation; environmental impacts

on human health and residential

property; damage costs avoided;

existence and bequest values of

preserving ecosystems

All of the above

Though the concept of the economic value presents a useful supplement in policy decision, it

seems that the methods used to evaluate this value are actually giving an estimated value.

Others have concluded that “even if the calculation is wrong in a strictly economic sense, it

still serves a point in indicating the importance of nature to human well-being” (Pimm, 1997).

However many articles appreciate the initiative. Forslund et al. (2009) argue that the

economic valuation of ecosystem services is one way of quantifying and justifying the

benefits of ecosystem services on the water agenda. Costanza et al. (1997) argue moreover

14

that this exercise is essential in order to make the range of potential values of the services of

ecosystems more apparent; establish at least a first approximation of the relative magnitude

of global ecosystem services; set up a framework for their further analysis; point out those

areas most in need of additional research; and stimulate additional research and debate.

However this exercise is lacking in policy and consequently the degradation of natural

systems increases indicate Lovett et al. (2008: 117). “This neglect may ultimately

compromise the sustainability of humans in biosphere” (Costanza et al. 1997).

The challenges in the valuation process subsist: the lack of the market. Hence, Lovett et al.,

(2008) argue that one way of remedying this is to create a market so that the payments are

made in proportion to the provision of goods and services. “It recognized that it is difficult to

value the benefits of nature in monetary terms” (Sutherland et al., 2010:958). Similarly, with

other articles mentioned above, Sutherland et al. (2010) argue that for nature conservation to

have a significant voice within the political agenda, it is often useful for the benefits accruing

from nature conservation objectives to be expressed in terms common to other competing

priorities.

2.3 Improving the understanding socio-ecological and economic system.

“The debate over what value resides in nature, or what is the value of nature, has highlighted

the fact that the core concept is complex and multidimensional” (Turner et al.2003:494).

Thus there is a need to improve understanding this complexity to ascribe the real value

(anthropocentric and non-anthropocentric) of nature and ecosystem services towards our

welfare thus to perform the economic system for this value.

In the introduction of this chapter, it was argued that the major threat to ecosystem goods and

services is our lack of understanding about how specific ecosystem functions may change

with ecosystem transformation. Another cause for concern is our hesitation about deciding on

options for coping with and ameliorating these fundamental changes. A third limitation is a

lack of knowledge about or incorrect valuation of, the „worth‟ of ecosystem functioning for

social well-being and economic advantage. In section, this should be again discussed in the

way to overcome above mentioned challenges.

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2.3.1 Economic valuation performance within ecosystem management-a need

“The relationship between the ecosystem and the economic system is complex”

(Baumgärtner et al., 2008:386). Costanza ( 1991) suggest that to study this relationship in an

encompassing manner several aspects have to be taken into account, including biological,

physical, chemical, economic, political, social, cultural as well as ethical aspects. This

implies cooperation between scientific disciplines and some kind of interrelationship science

and society, thus inter-and transdisciplinarity approach is an effective tool to overcome with

the complexity and its understanding. “Disciplines- bound approaches that hold one

component while varying the other lead to incomplete and incorrect answers” (Carpenter,

2009:1309).

One of the subjects suggested by the scientists is Ecological Economics (EE) to understand

the complex of this relationship. As Proops (1989:60) notes that EE aims to “study how

ecosystems and economic activity interrelate”. Thus, the subject matter of EE is the

“relationship between the ecosystems and economic systems in the broadest sense”

(Costanza, 1989:1). However, the aim of the EE is seen as “the science and management of

sustainability” (Costanza, 1991). In summary, the subject of EE is the relationship between

the economic and the ecological system, and its underlying central aim is to provide

knowledge for a sustainable management of this relationship argue Baumgärtner et al. (2008).

According to the definition of EE mentioned above, it seems to be a part of inter-and

transdisciplinary approach which can be used to guide policymakers to enhance their

understanding the relationship between the ecosystem and economic systems so that it can be

included in the national and local strategy.

In the same above idea, Billigren (2008) points out that to create a sound basis for natural

resources management, it is vital that ecologists, economists, anthropologists, sociologists,

etc. at least share a conception of the terms used (e.g. environment values), or have an

understanding of different meanings the terms might have.

Today scientists, engineers, researchers have enormous responsibility and influence forever

for the life quality of the present and future generations. One of the vision and strategies of

the department of thematic studies(2009-2012), points out that “Since resource use and

human activities at large have a deepening impact on the environment, research on the

interaction between social development and the environmental is essential, and thus the

16

constantly question posed on the relationship between human activities and nature and the

complexity of water and environmental issues need an integrated social and natural science

with a close cooperation between scientists from different disciplines”. Therefore it is a work-

in-progress and an interdisciplinary/transdisciplinary approach is the best strategy in

sustainability framework. That was underlined by many scientists. “It is likely never possible

to see or understand the entire complex of problems involved, for example, in natural

resources management” (Billgren, 2008). Thus, the interdisciplinary (cooperation between

scientific disciplines) and transdisciplinary (a kind of interrelationship between science and

society) approach shed light on the solutions to complex problems as the dynamic change of

the ecosystems. It is not enough to change behavior but it is also useful to understand the

socio-ecological system and the link between the economic policy and environment

outcomes.

2.3.2.Information on dynamic change of ecosystems and impacts-a long term action.

“We lack basic information on the dynamic of social-ecological systems and the relationships

of ecosystem services to human well-being” (Carpenter et al., 2009:1306). It is not simple to

human to predict the change that is why the lack of information will always observed due to

the complexity of the dynamic change of the nature. But this is not excuse to do nothing,

human experiences the situation and defines the measures on adaptation and thus perhaps can

limit the surprises.

“Conservation of the natural world requires us to understand and respond to change”

(Sutherland et al., 2010). That is a not easy everywhere to the extent that it requires a high

expertise and experience and obviously being in mastery of information on natural world

changes. This is not enough to have a high expertise; the attitude that human have on the

environment can play huge role to maintain it in good status, because is the human action that

causes environment damage, in general. In this line, Barr (2008) notes that “politically there

has been recognition that individual citizen hold the key to meeting critical environmental

targets through changes in their lifestyles”. The MEA (2005) indicates that over the past 50

years, humans have had a tremendous impact on their environment. Ecosystems are the

“natural capital” that generates a flow of ecosystem goods and services that are essential to

civilization, articulate Ehrlich et al. (2001:383). Therefore a need for maintaining those

ecosystems in the desired ecological conditions, such that it provides goods and services for

17

people and supports biodiversity should be wholehearted This implies to underscore and

understand the importance of this vulnerable “natural capital”. People do not need to be

necessarily well educated to capture this crucial importance, likely they need to be informed

and be aware on the issues of the ecosystem deterioration due mainly to anthropogenic driven

forces.

2.3.2.1 Understanding the environment flows concept as support

The world is facing with uncertainty and predicting the future is a challenge. “It is

increasingly being recognized that climate change will have a significant impact on the

aquatic environment in Europe” (IPCC, 2007). The idea that an allocation of water should be

made for the natural environment was taken up at UNCED in 1982, where the governments

of the United Nations made an ethical commitment to the environment in form of the World

Charter for Nature. Several meetings and conference highlighted the principle of Integrated

Water Resources Management (IWRM). In this aspect, the study has not discussed explicitly

the question of the IWRM, but finds extremely important to introduce what it is called

environment flows concept for maintaining the ecosystem resilience ( how often can the

ecosystem recover?) and to highlight that both quantity and quality are equally important.

Forslund et al., (2009) add that the concept of environment flows is an essential part of

Integrated Water Resources Management.

Wallace et al., (2003) argue that despite the abundance of water on the earth, it is becoming

clear that the relatively small proportion that is fresh and accessible is coming under

increasing pressure as the world population rises. Obviously there are others driving forces

which cause the degradation of the freshwater such pollution, global warming to name that

only. “As the water resources of the world come under increasing pressure, their allocation

between different uses becomes more critical” (Wallace et al., 2003:2019). This recall the

prevention and precautionary principle which should be taken in account in the environment

policy and regulation.

The environment flows is now a widely accepted term that covers the quantity, timing,

duration, frequency and quality of water flows required to sustain freshwater, estuarine, and

near-shore ecosystems and human livelihoods and well-being that depend on them(Acreman

et al.,2010). Hence we have to bear in mind that the environment flows play a crucial role and

it should be implemented in policy and strategy to restore and maintain good ecological

status-the target for most water body. “As human water requirements grow, the water left to

18

support aquatic ecosystem is reduced and the already considerable ecosystem impacts will

continue to rise” (Wallace, 2003). Other users as such agriculture which requires a high

amount of water for crops production limit the equity allocation. In particular the silent user

(ecosystem) will be the most vulnerable because the environment flow required to support

and maintain the ecosystem in desired ecological conditions is often neglected in water

resources management strategy. Acreman (2010) indicates that there is no specific project

which has been undertaken to develop consistent environment flow procedures across

Europe. Acreman (2010) continues to mention that the United Kingdom was the first country

to address environment flows needs. This observation leaves the room to say that much more

attention is needed around the concept.

The EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) which came into force on 22 December 2000

seeks to harmonize the water related issues within the members of the Union. This WFD does

not use the term environment flows explicitly, but requires member states (currently includes

27) to achieve good ecological status (GES) in all water bodies, which is assessed by

reference to aquatic biology as indicate Acreman et al. (2010). Nevertheless, it is accepted

that ecologically appropriate hydrological regime are necessary to meet this status.

“Implementing environment flows will be a key measure for restoring and managing river

ecosystems” (Acreman et al. 2010). Other international, regional, national meetings claim

this concept. The international environmental flows conference held in Brisbane (Brisbane

declaration, 2007) highlighted the importance of the environment flows as above some

articles underline the concept. As one key finding include: “Freshwater ecosystems are

foundation of our social, cultural, and economic well being”. It means that freshwater

ecosystems –rivers, lakes, floodplains, wetlands, and estuaries-provide clean water, food,

fiber, energy, and many others benefits that support economies and livelihoods around world.

The Brisbane declaration (2007) underlines the environmental flows as an essential for

freshwater ecosystem health and human well-being. This shows that the environment flows

concept is crucial to maintain healthy those ecosystem services developed above. Briefly, the

environment flows lead to creating an “Immune system” of ecosystem, referred as to

resilience as it is stipulated in the Swedish Water House (SWH) policy briefs nr 3 (Moberg et

al. 2005).

To summarize as argue Turner et al. (2003) “the ability to value nature‟s services is

constrained by the complexity of nature itself”. This chapter was discussing how to improve

19

the understanding the relation between ecological and economic system using the Ecological

Economic subject. This is one way to capture the link between them. It has been mentioned

that the ecosystem services are often multi-dimensional/functional and involved in more one

process. The inter- and transdisciplinary approach was suggested as a key to overcome the

complexity of the natural resources management. Environment flows concept can be a useful

instrument to restore and manage the various ecosystems. Moreover it can be an effective and

reliable strategy to cope the climate variability and change. That is important for the study to

underscore the concept while talking about ecosystem services.

3. Materials and Methods

3.1 Motivation of the study

The lake Vänern constitutes a significant economic value for the Municipality and the well-

being of its surrounding, communities through various provision of services such as

foods/fish, domestic water supply, energy, industrials products; cultural services such as

aesthetic beauty, recreational opportunities, to name only that. The recreational services are

likely predominant (fishing, swimming, boating, hunting, picnicking) as the result will show

that later. It is obviously known that the lakes all over the world are more vulnerable natural

reservoirs and ecosystems than others ecosystems such terrestrial ecosystems (forest, soil).

This is due of their natural attractive aspect. People and the economic development are often

attracted to this aquatic ecosystem. Hence due to human activities in this area, an

environmental change is expected due likely to accumulation of loads of sediments, nutrients

from human activities (agriculture, household, industries) and others negative impacts on

those natural reservoirs, such as lakes. Though the lake, itself delivers many services to the

resident of the municipality and others regions of the Värmland, the quality of the lake is still

a concern for the municipality in particular, as well as the whole catchment in the region in

the long term vision. The idea for this study is not to find out solutions of this issue, however,

the study is interested to understand and to investigate how people perceive the value of this

aquatic ecosystem in their life; to figure out the consciousness, behaviour and attitude that the

residents have towards this natural capital to keep it healthy and their reaction in the case the

status of the lake is altered in term of both quality and quantity.

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3.2 Research design

3.2.1 Concept from literature

The study is focusing on the value of the ecosystem services and goods people benefit from

them. Some relevant references on the environment in general and in particular on the

ecosystem services and the economic valuation concept were collected and reviewed.

Most literature materials were focused on understanding of several ecosystem services and

the value effected to them as mentioned above. Some of the different methods of valuing of

the services and goods from ecosystems were identified in the table (2.1). The valuation

methods were not considered to be applied during the research; however they were simply

mentioned in the chapter above to let the readers know about their utilities. “Techniques for

valuing ecosystem services are still relatively new and untested and the results of such

calculations must be interpreted with care” (Dehghani et al., 2010:273). However there is an

interest to adapt those methods to estimate the value of the services just to increase

awareness. Dehghani et al. (2010:273) quote that natural resources valuation is important to

give decision makers a succinct summary of environmental problems and environment

outcomes and to adjust national accounts aggregates such as GDP. Costanza et al. (1997:253)

in the other hand argue that unfortunately the ecosystem services are not fully „captured‟ in

commercial markets or adequately quantified in terms comparable with economic services

and manufactured capital, therefore they are given too little weight in policy decisions. This

neglect may ultimately compromise the sustainability of humans in the biosphere, articulate

Costanza et al. (1997). This inspired significantly the study to discuss if the economic

concept of valuing ecosystem services is a useful decision support tool to improve natural

capital management in sustainable manner.

3.2.2 Interview

The nature of the research questions of this study implies to adapt and conduct an interview

as technique to gather data. Hence an interaction and an open-ended interview were used

during the field work in the Kristinehamn Municipality. A methodology to test the hypothesis

and answer the research questions was also developed. As Kvale et al. (2008), argue the skills

of interviewing are learned by practicing interviewing, and the quality of interviewing is

21

judged by the strength and value of the knowledge produced. As Marshall et al., (2006) argue

that qualitative research is pragmatic, interpretive, and grounded in the lived experiences of

people. Moreover, according to Silverman (2000), if you are concerned with exploring

people‟s life histories or everyday behaviour, the qualitative methods may be favoured.

“Assessing public preferences for natural resources is a difficult task” (Powe et al.2005:513).

“The complexity of the research problem has encouraged practitioners to adopt qualitative

approaches as exploratory and diagnostic tools” (Powe et al.2005:513). Thus the quantitative

technique was not an option of the study because it aims to explore people‟s attitude towards

the value of the services and goods they benefit from the lake Vänern. Moreover, the study

intends to gain knowledge and understanding of the question through qualitative approach

according to the nature of the research questions.

In fact, an interview study was conducted to illuminate the participant‟s perceptions on the

value of the ecosystem services. In this case the aquatic ecosystem that the lake Vänern was

selected as a case study for this investigation. An open-ended interview was adopted where

the participants, local Authority (politicians and official employees of the Commune) and

general public as categories were identified and invited during the interview. The participants

were composed by 45% of the politicians, 25% of municipality employees, 20% of general

public, which was broken down into teachers, child and one retired, and 10% represented by

the young democracy forum. Youth Forum is a religiously and politically independent youth

council made up of a bunch of young people who are interested to be part of changing

Kristinehamn to make it even better. The work done during non-formal forms where one tries

to act as non-bureaucratic as possible. The study considered this group as a special participant

in the interview according their mission

The identification and invitation were facilitated and supported by the Municipality (e.g. local

for meeting with the participants). In total, about 20 interviewees (table 3.1) with different

background and functions were interviewed during three intensive days.

22

Table 3.1: Number of participants in each category

Categories Numbers of participants

percentage %

Politicians 9 45

Municipality employees 5 25

General Public 4 20

Youth forum 2 10

Total 20 100

In the table 3.1, it is recognized that politicians showed more interest towards interview. This

probably the orientation of the idea of the study is one of the priorities in their dairy activities

for the management of the lake Vänern. This question was not asked, however the local

authority (Politicians and municipality employees) helped the study to shed light on the

different strategies.

In fact among these interviewees, the local authority was been pointed out to gather and to

discuss information regarding the policy and strategy to secure long-term varieties

ecosystems services and support the biodiversity conservation. This group of the category is

important as decision makers and can influence the community to enhance their behaviour

and attitude towards the environment of the municipality. Considering the background

(educational level) and function (e.g. teachers) of the respondent in the category of the

general public and youth democracy forum the same information was sought in the same

way. This obviously implied how the natural resources management should be improved;

which strategies should be undertaken to enable keeping this ecosystem in the desired and

sustainable ecological conditions. The general public as the study named alike is the group

composed by two teachers, one child and one retired man. This group is considered by the

study as a group which is not directly involved in the strategy, policy and planning activities

of the municipality. But they can give their thought in term of the benefits they receive from

the lake Vänern. Hence the discussion regarding strategy and planning was not interested to

this group. However the questions suggested to be discussed with the general public were

available and relevant to the category of the local authority and vice versa (according to the

level of understanding the question). Brief according to the limited time, the study could not

enlarge the number of the participants in particular the general public. But the study considers

23

as representative group because the category is composed by well educated participants

(teachers) and future generation (young forum and the young girl).

To make smoothly the interview, a questionnaire was prepared in advance as a guide for

discussion and thus was not handed out to the respondents. The study was motivated by the

flexibility character and respect between interviewer and respondent during the interview. In

general, the questionnaire was striven for to elicit two important themes as the attitude and

behaviour towards the environmental aspect in general and the value ascribed to the

ecosystem services and goods that benefits the nature and human. It was obviously

recognized that individuals have different view and opinions on values to a given good or

services. In this case, the study proposed to conduct an open-closed interview where the

respondent had an opportunity to be flexible in his/her answer. As Silverman (2000) argues

that the most popular approach is to treat respondents‟ answer as describing some external

reality (e.g. facts, events) or internal experience (e.g. feelings, meanings). Thus the flexibility

was given to the respondents for an open discussion, what was been prioritised by the study

to have a large opinion on the aim of the study to enable answering to the research questions.

During the interview it was been adopted that the respondent was allowed to affect the

interview.

To summarize, according to the research questions, the qualitative method as a mean to

gather the information has been adopted by the study. In fact, the study strove to understand

the value that Kristinehamn residents ascribe to the lake Vänern and the way in which

individuals (behaviour) can play a role in moving towards sustainability. Three mainly

categories of respondents interested the interview as mentioned above: local authority

(politicians, municipality employees), general public (teachers, child, and retired man) and

the youth democracy forum. The local authority could likely elucidate some questions

relevant to the policies measures and future plan to improve the life quality of the resident,

the quality of the environment in general and the aquatic ecosystem that the lake Vänern in

particular in the perspective that payment of ecosystem services (PES) is introduced.

3.2.3 Limitation of the methodology

Although the study adopted to categorise the respondents as illustrated in the table 3.1, it was

not possible to identify adequately the appropriated backgrounds before the interview.

Another limitation was the language used during the interview. The interviewer opted some

24

time to discuss in two languages Swedish and English. Some of the respondents preferred to

answer in one of the language, and the majority chose the Swedish in which they were more

comfortable. To make accuracy the information issued from the interview, a recording tool

was applied to collect all the information which was played back for analysis. This recording

tool helped out so much to overcome technical problems. Moreover, to improve the reliability

of the information, the address and telephone numbers of respondents were taken for future

contact for clarification on one or another discussion. Thus, the research assumes that more

time was needed to investigate perceptions of stakeholders (e.g. farmers and others residents)

on the value of the ecosystem services. Despite this the study assumes that the participants

provided a broad range of perspectives on the research aim.

4. Results

4.1 Perceived benefits of the ecosystem services

The lake Vänern is considered as the identity for the Municipality, argues one of the

participants. All the respondents (20) strongly considered the lake as an important aquatic

ecosystem and an economic resource for the municipality in particular and the region covered

by the lake. The sentence was expressed often from almost the respondent: “We live for this

area. This environment belongs to all of us”. The same consideration was noted

independently how long the distance from their residence, being in possession of boat or not.

The distance doesn‟t play role in their appreciation. The significance of the existence of the

lake is a tremendous treasure for all respondents. “I walk along the lake at least one day a

week and it makes me a huge pleasure”, just added one of the participants.

More participants viewed as services from the lake were recreational; aesthetic, drainage

services independently their age and their educational level (figure 4.1). The participants

were unanimously agreed and commonly explained that the existence of this lake in their life

has tremendous significant value hence for their welfare and for the municipality. Some of

them reacted that they could move to another place if the lake didn‟t exist or if it would be

polluted. One of the participant lives close to the lake: “I hear the lake and my flowers and

my garden is well maintained thanks to the lake. It is wonderful to enjoy this service”. When

this participant was asked about the waste water, it was revealed that the commune takes care

25

with this issue where it comes to empty the tank. However the participant closer to the lake

deplores the lack of community engagement. The young people (from the forum) persisted

also in the same idea, that there is a need to make involved the young in various municipality

activities relevant to improving the environment and the lake especially. “People need change

articulated the one of the youth forum. “We as young still have energy; it is our concern to be

involved in keeping our lake in healthy condition, in particular and the nature in general,

continued the young”.

Figure 4.1 : Number of the participants in according with their preferences.

In the figure (4.1) above it is illustrated the significant lake‟ functions and preferred types of

the services by respondents. 80% of participants revealed strong preferences to

cultural/recreational opportunities; aesthetic and waste water drainage services and functions.

The Kristinehamn municipality supply drinking water their resident from another lake called

Bergsjön. Three of the participants have their own water supply. They use groundwater and

they revealed that the water is delicious and enough. “I have my own lake” articulated one

the participant. That is why few people (4) have chosen the water supply as good from the

lake Vänern as it is shown on the figure 4.1.

26

4.2 Perception the value of the services

There is a greater recognition of the value of environmental services when it was asked about

the loss of the one of the services the participants benefit from the lake. Limburg (2009:25)

argues that value is the difference that something makes to someone. All the participants

reacted negatively in the event that the lake does not have the capacity to supply the services

discussed above. The situation would be upsetting without this natural resource. Most

participants stated they cared for the status of the quality of the lake and they would express

anger and frustration in case the losses of the services/function of the lake. Even the youngest

of the respondent who was ten years old, she surprised bluntly the discussion. She added that

the lake is “snäll och rolig”. This appreciation can be interpreted as the lake is a wonderful

and a funny for the nature. She added again that it is not good to throw the rubbish into the

lake, instead it should be thrown in the container (“Inte släng mat, man ska släng i

kontenen”). This is significant as an answer from this young girl. From above respondents,

obviously they make a chose and value on these services. “The various recreational services

provided by the lakes and rivers –fishing, swimming, boating, hunting, picnicking, or nature

appreciation in general-are all enhanced by the body of water‟s natural beauty” (Corrigan, at

al., 2009). That was clear and simple during the discussion.

When asked about the willingness to participate and contribute in different activities to

improve the quality of the lake, unanimously the participants adhered to the idea. Table 4.1

illustrates the willing to pay or to participate in order to improve the quality of the lake. 90%

of the participants adhere to the principle, and can endure personal commitment to keep

healthy the environment in general and the lake in particular. 10% of the participants declared

that they pay taxes and the municipality have to assume the responsibility.

27

Table 4.1. Willing to pay for improving the quality of the lake

Willing to pay of the respondents

Categories WTP I pay tax

Politicians 8 1

Employees of the Municipality 5

General Public 3 1

Youth forum 2

Total 18 2

Percentage % 90 10

4.3 Sustainability and strategy viewed by the respondents

The main themes arising from the analysis relevant on option for sustainability and strategies

for improving the management of the ecosystems services derived from the lake are

summarized in the table (4.2). Briefly, the participants are in general focused on the

following sustainability and strategy options:

28

Table 4.2: Summary discussions on sustainability and strategy options

Options Interpretation ideas from the participants

1. Quality and

quantity of the

water

The participants consider that both quality and quantity are equally important. However

they prioritise the quality first. “We have much water, we are spoiled, we don‟t need to

bother here” articulate one of the participants. The Östersund case was cited as a lesson

about quality: humans do not have access to all information, and the capacity to

elaborate and evaluate information is limited, so principle of prevention and precaution

is privileged. “We can be surprised”.

2.Changing the

behaviour and

attitude

That is a key. We need to change our behaviour in using our resources. The natural

resources are limited. Thinking about the future generation is a good concept. They have

right to benefit those services we benefit today. “If we cut the tree, we have to let it to

grow again”. We take and in same time we have to give back.

“We have to be responsible”. “Everybody should be engaged and committed to save and

protect our environment”. Change the consumption pattern is a need. Doing your bit:

you can do a little think but it can contribute save our planet. It should start at home.

“Reduce chemistry product, privilege local and ecological product”.

3. Management the

waste in household

The waste should be treated, and if possible eliminated at the source. If the waste cannot

be eliminated, the material may be recycled, and if that is not possible it may be burnt.

5. Young process

participation

“We have to be involved in different activities”. We need to be informed what is going

on and be actor not as spectator in actions. Young are not informed about those

strategies, however in school they are informed about the environment issues. Young are

interested to be engaged in issue. Young should learn those issues not from the books.

6.Information and

communication

useful tool

The information and communication within stakeholders were invoked during interview.

The young association persisted as well as others participants the municipality should

motivate the young to take part in different activities in their municipality, in particular

actions relevant to environment issues such as to maintain the quality of the lake. People

do not aware about the plan strategy elaborated by municipality. Those documents are

useful but no sufficient for changing people. However the politicians are main

stakeholder and participate in strategy and policy framework elaboration. Medias an

important tool for awareness or others events like the environment meetings.

7.Environment

education from our

childhood

Environmental culture from babyhood is a fundamental strategy. The youngest

participant (10 years old) is an example.

29

5. Discussions

“Humanity is completely reliant upon nature for welfare and survival” (Turner et al. 2008).

Thus the human well-being depends on the nature and that is why the interaction between the

human and nature is permanent. If this is the case the value of the nature is evident. In fact,

Costanza et al (1997) argue that “it is trivial to ask what the value of the atmosphere to

humankind is or what the value of rocks is and soil infrastructure as support system”. “Their

value is infinite in total”, conclude Costanza et al (1997). “However it is meaningful to ask

how changes in the quantity or quality of various types of natural capital and ecosystem

services may have impacted welfare” articulate Constanza et al. (1997). “Thus the

environmental value is definitely linked to human well-being”, add Costanza et al. (1997).

From these arguments, it is clear that even people do not attribute a value of the services they

receive for free (air we breathe, precipitation) they will recognize it upon the service is lost.

“Although this should be a reality and natural ecosystems are potentially very valuable, these

values have often been ignored, with obviously the result that degradation of ecosystems has

occurred”, argue Turner et al (2008). In the same idea, a principal reason for the decline of

ecosystem services is because their true values are not considered in economic decision

making (MEA, 2005). This is significant consideration that the economic valuation of

services /functions is a valuable tool in some circumstances to avoid the degradation or

overexploitation of the planet resources, at least to stimulate additional research and debate

and set up a framework for analysis of the situation relevant to change and management of

the ecosystem services.

This discussion is highlighting the functions of the lake appreciated by the respondents, in

particular the cultural functions, the importance of understanding of ecological and economic

system. The commitment of the community and their change of behaviour are also discussed

as essential key complement to bear in mind the high value of the benefits people receive

from the ecosystem services, the aquatic ecosystem in this case, the lake Vänern in

Kristinehamn Municipality. Moreover the study discusses briefly how the understanding of

the dynamic change of ecosystem and the impact is crucial to prevent surprises although it is

difficult to predict uncertainty.

30

5.1 The functions of the lake Vänern for the respondents

From the result above the functions of the lake are enormous for the residents of the

municipality. The study identified some services and functions which can be delivered from

this aquatic ecosystem. It was recorded that more 80 % of the respondents selected the

cultural services as mainly services they benefit from the lake (fig 4.1). The MEA (2005) has

suggested four categories(fig.2.1) and among them the cultural services( recreational,

aesthetic, intellectual, spiritual inspiration...) that make the world a place in which people

want to live are greatly connected to the functioning of the lake. Moreover, according again

to the MEA (2005) those cultural services contribute to the constituents of well-being related

mostly to the healthy (strength, feeling well, access to clean air and water) and to the good

social relations such as social cohesion, mutual respect and ability to help others. The study

likely expected to this result and this research is under impression that the cultural services

from the lakes in Europe (where they exist) constitute the mainly preference as services for

people and in particular the residents around the lake Vänern in this case study. This can be a

lesson for the study that the cultural and economic dimensions of the community are factor to

consider when it comes to value the services or goods delivered from a given ecosystems and

to set up the environment policy mechanism such as the Payment of Environment Services

(PES) which is discussed above.

5.2 The PES view and willing to participate by the respondents

In the previous section, it was discussed that the values of nature are infinite to humanity.

However because they are complexes and multi-dimensional, valuation environmental

services become subsequently also complex, in particular when it comes to evaluate the “non-

use values” of services or indirect use of services people benefit from them such as

recreational/aesthetic services as it is a case in the study area. Those services are difficult to

put an economic value in monetary term due to their Common pool resources (CPR) where it

is difficult to exclude user trough physical or institutional barriers. Brief they are considered

as open-access resource. As Limburg (2009) argues “although the importance of ecosystem

goods and services is recognized, quantifying these has been at times challenging and

controversial”. In the same idea, Turner put it like “Society may also regard nature or some

of its attributes as socio-culturally, historically or symbolically valuable; and for some people

31

such value cannot be meaningfully expressed in monetary terms”. Despite that, it was argued

that the initiation of the economic valuation is motivated that it can help to consider the

importance of the ecosystem services and the benefits people derive from them. Moreover it

can improve or generate a better and more comprehensive informational base for the policy

formulation and decision making process as Turner et al, (2003:494) articulate in their article.

Turner (2000) argues that there is a strong case in favour of environmental economic

valuation as a decision aid, but there are limits to its use. The discussion on this section tries

to cover the limitation of the economic valuation of the ecosystems services in particular the

cultural services that participants consider as benefits they receive from the lake Vänern in

this case study.

5.2.1 The PES perceived by the respondents

The discussion during interviews revealed the complexity of understanding how to apply the

Payment of Environment Services (PES), clearly to put a price on a given ecosystem services

from a common pool resource as the lake, in particular the indirect use services such as

cultural services. Drawing on the participants interview the respondents were not so

prompted to answer when it came to discussing about the economic option and set a price on

services and goods though the participants revealed an understanding of the value. It was

unfamiliar. In fact one politician among the participants interpreted the situation: “I agree that

economic systems can improve the way to manage our environmental resources and to raise

awareness on sustainable development plan, but I need to understand how it can work”. The

study agrees with that because in economic terms the common pool resource are defined as

resources systems that are rival and non-excludable. However the participants manifested the

willing to contribute/pay in case it was asked to improve the quality of the lake (by increasing

their taxes or others economics measures). The result showed that 90% the participants are

willing to pay (table 4.1). “The point that must be stressed is that the economic value of

ecosystems is connected to their physical, chemical, and biological role in the overall system,

whether the public fully recognizes that role or not” (Costanza et al, 1989:339). This is an

interesting issue because it shows that the participants are willing to participate and be

committed in action, though the option of paying seemed to be unfamiliar. Two participants

(10% of the respondents) however articulated that they pay taxes and that is enough as

contribution and the government or local authority should be committed to taking care of the

32

issues. One politician was in this group and it is unsure to the study if the discussion was

clear or not to her. However the study considers the answer for the retired man acceptable

and perhaps the study can assume that the residents, at the same age (he is 74) and the same

status could answer in the same way.

“People have the confidence to invest in collective activities, knowing that others will also do

so” (O‟Riordan et al., 2002). Some of the participants revealed a will to contribute in term of

monetary in the conditions that the investment is framed to improve their welfare and hence

the economic development of the municipality. Therefore the community should be informed

on the early stage of different projects and during their life cycle to stimulate the collective

participation.

The politicians perceived the Payment of Ecosystem Services (PES) with consideration and

appreciation as economic instruments. It is obviously recognized that decision-makers like a

numbers to articulate their policy reliability. However the study considers that this concept is

not practical to implement in the community („based adaptation‟) where behaviour and

attitude towards environment is highly adapted as the study get this impression. But the PES

can play a huge role in the case of poorest understanding of the value by the community. To

clarify the role of the PES, some definitions are given by various literatures. Fisher et al.

(2010:1256) define the PES as a tool designed to use economic incentive system for

protecting, ensuring or augmenting the delivery of benefits to human from natural system.

Thus, the study realises that economic incentives are not necessary to protect the aquatic

ecosystem, that the lake, at least in the short time in the study area. According to their usual

practice, participants showed and have the will to contribute towards keeping their lake in

good health. However a deep clarification on this concept is required as a need because the

PES is in some cases useful tool, e.g. in the context of continued environmental degradation

of agricultural landscape. A number of recent publication, such the article Wendland et al.

(2010: 2093) note that PES is generating a lot of attention among conservationists because

they have the potential to create new funding opportunities for biodiversity protection and

other ecosystem services that contribute to human well-being. “In theory, the PES approach

can offer several advantages for meeting biodiversity conservation goals over other

conservation intervention” (Wendland et al. 2010:2095). Despite this, the concept seems not

to be an appropriated tool yet in the place where community are closed or aware by

environment as this study got this impression and where the biodiversity conservation is

33

warranted. Moreover it cannot be applied in this case where the services provided by the lake

are indirect use and non-market character, if this statement is limited to that. However this

approach should be an ideal test in developing countries. In fact some PES studies have

shown that the concept is an innovative conservation approach and it has been experienced in

Tanzania, Madagascar, in Vietnam. Instead the promotion of the PES, it will be interesting to

practise with an economic valuation of the most preferred services as the

cultural/recreational/aesthetical value of the lake Vänern. Costanza et al. (1997:255) note that

the exercise of valuing the services of natural capital „at the marginal‟ consists of determining

the differences that relatively small changes in these services make to human welfare. Thus

the concept of value can guide and influence the individual, the community decisions towards

handling and using sustainable the ecosystem services.

To summarize from above section, the study believes that the economic valuation can be a

useful support tool to improve the natural resources management and to raise awareness on

benefits of ecosystems services on the water agenda, water national and local strategy plan.

Moreover the economic valuing concept is essential to set up a framework for further

analysis, additional research and stimulate debate on the value of ecosystem services in

general and aquatic ecosystem (the lake Vänern) in this case study.

However it was argued that to set up a price on the services has a limit. In fact it is not easy to

value or set up a price to the non market services and goods such cultural services above

discussed or what called common goods such as the air we breathe, precipitations and others.

However they have an infinite value to the people. This can be simply understood in the

example given by Turner et al(2003:495): “When the gas regulation functions of the

atmosphere are so severely degraded that human life is at risk, it is unlikely to be feasible to

think of substitutes for those functions much less place monetary values on them”.

5.2.2 Community engagement and behavioural change as a key option

The section above related to the economic valuation as a tool to improve or to change the

way scientists and others actors should think about the value of ecosystems. This concept

could be or must to be supported with others mechanism. Thus the community engagement

and behavioural change was an option to accentuate the enhancement for ecosystem

management during the interview. One of the simplest explanations an economist can use to

34

explain the objective of economic environmental valuation is to say “as long as we are forced

to make choices we are doing valuation” (Costanza et al., 1997). Again, Costanza et al.

(1997) articulate that some argue that valuation of ecosystems is either impossible or unwise,

that we cannot place a value on such “intangibles” as human life, environmental aesthetics, or

long-term ecological benefits. “But, in fact, we do so every day” (Costanza et al., 1997).

“That is, every day everyone makes minor and major choices that are more or less well

considered” (Billgren, 2008).

In fact, one or two of the participants brought an idea that there are different ways to value

the service or goods through changing our behaviour and attitude in term of their lifestyle. As

an example, when it comes to buy household products, it is possible to buy ecological and

local products (without long distance of transport); less use of chemical products, travel by

train instead to drive a car, use bike. Thus, this individual choice is considered as an option to

put a value/price indirectly to keep the environment healthy. The fundamental finding in this

section is not to put “$ price tag” on the environment, or its component parts, but to express

that “the commitment beyond money contribution indicates a high value”.

The discussion brought forth a fascinating moment during the interview. It provided valuable

insight into the perception of the value of the services and the willing to be engaged and

committed individually in the action to improve the quality of the lake. Although the local

authority/government is committed to securing the welfare of the population, individuals

need to complement the efforts of the government. It is revealed in this research that a high

adaptive capacity can be appreciated in community of the Kristinehamn Municipality. It was

revealed again that the authority takes care of everything or what the respondents consider as

a no good option. “Because human well-being motivates ecosystem services projects, we

argue that human dimension has to be included early and explicitly in these projects” (Menzel

et al., 2009:907). “One way to do this is by involving stakeholders in the research through

participatory processes which has been explored in natural resources management(NRM), to

which we consider ecosystem services research and ecosystem-based management to be

recent variants” (Menzel et al.,2009:907). Thus, the participants in the municipality

manifested a wish to participate actively in this process to keep their natural resources, as the

aquatic ecosystem (the lake) in good status, so that this aquatic ecosystem will maintain its

quality to provide services to the Municipality community. This indicates hence the value of

the lake for the respondent in particular and can be the same option for the resident in the

35

entire catchment area. Barr (2008) argues in this term that “we need to get out of the

mentality that I‟m not going to do anything because nobody else does”. An individual

accountability is crucial. Everyone should be responsible in his daily activities to support

keeping healthy the nature. This was articulated by some participants when it comes to use

chemicals households‟ product. They recommended in fact to use less chemicals products

and if possible to consume ecological and locally products as mentioned again above.

“Clearly, changing human behavior to save the environment is an extremely important topic”

(Bell et al., 2001). Bell et al. (2001) put out a question that what unique contribution can

environmental psychology make to help deal with the many environmental problems we face

( e.g. insufficient and expensive fuel, air and water pollution, depletion of forests, and other

natural areas)? Many seem to think that solving our environmental problems requires only

right technologies. “In contrast, relatively less attention has focused on strategies for

preserving the environment that involve changes in people‟s behavior” (Bell et al., 2001).

Participants showed the study that they can likely adapt this change behavior in their

responses. This can be confirmed when 90% can adhere to the PES scheme. Several

respondents insisted that the information and education from the childhood towards the

natural resources management should be the best strategy to adapt this behavior and attitude.

The participants revealed that helping the environment and especially their aquatic

ecosystem, the lake Vänern and to keep it in the healthy and quality of the lake begins at

home (recycling, use less chemical products, local product consumption and so on). They

believe doing so; individual commitment can make a difference. Goldman (2010:16) advises

that making choices that can benefit both us and nature may be our best option for securing

our livelihoods. Major efforts have been made to reduce pollution from manufacturing

industries in Europe. “Whilst these have been relatively successful, a vast array of chemicals

is intentionally or inadvertently washed down the drain because they are household and

personal care products; some of these are harmful or potentially harmful substances”

(Caliman et al., 2009).

.

36

5.3 Dynamic change of ecosystems and impacts on the lake

The Municipality has improved enormous work on improving the quality of the lake. The

water and organisms of the lake are examined several times a year as it stipulated in their

report. The EU Water Framework Directive is road map to achieve the goal on the GES of

the water body. However there are still concerns such as invasive species. There is

overgrowth vegetation which needs to investigate in many bays of the lake as the study noted

before. This action is framed as a long term action plan. There is a constantly need to

improve the information on the dynamic change of ecosystem and to cope this knowledge

gap. In fact all participants revealed the understanding the degradation of the environment

and showed an impressive will to maintain clean their lake, despite their background (the

children, the retired old man). “Natural ecosystems have been the source of all foods

consumed by human beings, a large proportion of the medicines and many important

industrial products ranging from natural dyes to cotton and timber” (Ehrlich et al., 2001:383).

This sound simple to understand but human activities progressively are likely continuing to

put stress on the ecosystems, such as deforestation, damming and others water development,

toxins in aquatic systems, ozone depletion, agriculture, industrialization just to limit on that

despite the efforts of awareness and the integrity of the social and natural science. “The need

for transdisciplinarity is ubiquitous” (Klein, 2004). As discussed above an inter- and

transdisciplinarity approach can be a key to undertake the complexity of the nature, its

change. Goldman (2010:17) in her analysis notes that “not understanding nature‟s role in the

products we use means we won‟t conserve nature sufficiently; this in turn will compromise

our ability to access products we need, or we will have to find sometimes costly alternatives

for what nature could otherwise provide to us”. The respondents largely revealed that all of

them understand the role and the value of the lake in their life despite the distance they live

from Vänern. As Wilson (2003) argues, when we realize how we depend on the rest of nature

for our well-being, we are much more likely to protect and conserve it. That has been shown

by the participants in their benefits they receive from the lake, in particular cultural values. In

this manner of understanding and individual conscientious can be an exceptional approach

(among others) to make environment policy effective in order to improve human well-being.

As above mentioned the understanding of the environment flows concept is central in the

case the concept is now a widely accepted term that covers the quantity, timing, duration,

frequency and quality of water flows required to sustain freshwater, estuarine, and near-shore

37

ecosystems and human livelihoods and well-being that depend on them. This implied to

underline the role playing the environment flows as support to keep healthy the ecosystem

services, especially the aquatic ecosystem that the lake Vänern and to adapt/mitigate the

uncertainty even when ecosystems are fairly well researched. Brief in other words the

environment flows contribute to support or maintain the ecosystem resilience. The study

observed that the participants are convinced not to be worry with quantity of water. “We are

spoiled in term of quantity; we have so much water in Sweden”. That is why the study found

necessary to introduce the concept into the discussion and the study considers that once it is

included in the strategic plan, it can contribute to maintain the aquatic ecosystem, the lake

Vänern, in balance condition both quality and quantity.

Summary, the discussion argued that the PES is not necessary to experience to the extent in

this case study, where people are highly adaptive to the change and “closed” to environment,

like European community in general and in particular the residents of Kristinehamn

municipality where it was revealed that the commitment beyond the money contribution and

behavioural/attitude towards the environment indicate a high value. The respondents showed

the study that they attribute the lake (open-access resource) as socio-cultural valuable and

such value are not easy to express in monetary terms. However they can participate in the

others way such using less chemical product, changing their lifestyle. The reaction of the

respondents to be committed and change their behavior is a key evidence to improve the

management of “natural capital” and the study consider likely that the community could

adhere to this impressive option to keep the lake in good ecological status. The respondents

revealed that they are ready to participate and to contribute to conserve the functions that the

lake Vänern performs to the welfare of the community such cultural functions. Definitely,

losing one of the functions of the lake will create an upsetting situation to the resident. Some

of the participants revealed that they would move to others places in the case the loss of the

quality /quantity status of the lake. The lake is “our identity” and this was a “buzz” word for

the respondent. This reaction shows how tremendously the value of the lake, as one can

argue that the commitment beyond money contribution indicates a high value, what the study

agrees. The participants showed the study the willing to participate and their high adaptive

capacity to change, what the study considers as one of the key strategy to keep environment

value and services in sustainable way. The study noted that the participants hesitated to

balance the importance of quality and quantity. The quality seemed to be a priority for them

38

according to one reason that “our country has so much water”. This was an answer from

several participants. This revealed the study that people often think locally than globally. The

world reserves us many surprises and the scientists recognize that it is difficult to predict the

future due to uncertainty. Thus, the study underlined the importance of the environment flows

which concept can mitigate the extreme variation of the flow regime to maintain healthy

various ecosystems and especially the balance both quality and quality of the lake Vänern.

6. Conclusions and recommendations

The findings of the study emphasize firstly the importance of understanding of the social and

natural interactions and changing human behaviour/attitude towards the environment.

Secondary the study analyzed the role of the economic value in the context of improving the

natural resources management although challenges still remain to perform it and increasing

awareness towards the natural capital, the source of human well-being. The last two chapters

were dealing to answer the four research questions. In fact the study result revealed that the

respondents view the lake Vänern as their identity and source of the economy of the

Municipality. Recreational, aesthetic, drainage are predominant services preferred by the

participants of this aquatic ecosystem. Thus the lake Vänern has a tremendous significant

value for their welfare. Moreover, there is a great recognition of the value of the environment

services from the Lake when it was asked about the loss of the one service, the participants

benefit from the lake. The situation would be upsetting without this natural resource. Most

the participants stated they cared for the status of the quality of the lake and they would

express anger and frustration in case the losses of the services/function of the lake.

The participants showed that they have a willing to change behaviour and to adapt the

implementation of environmental ethic. Hence, the implementation economic systems linked

with socio-ecological could likely become a constructive premise. From the fieldwork, it is

apparent a need to improve the understanding of this link. Through the subject matter and

aims of the ecological economics, an understanding of the relationship between the

ecological and economic systems could be improved. Moreover it provides knowledge to

keep sustainable this relationship. Thus, to make both understanding and production of this

knowledge require inter-and transdisciplinarity approach.

39

The Payment of Environment Services (PES) was mentioned as a model option for

conservation of ecosystem, but the study considers that the initiative would not be likely an

appropriate policy tool in this community based adaptation, though all the participants

seemed very receptive to the value of the services they benefit from the lake Vänern in

Kristinehamn Municipality. The adaptive capacity of recognizing the value of the services

they benefit from the lake is high as well as their adaptation capacity to initiate the payment

program. For this reason, the study suggests a tentative economic valuation of the

cultural/recreation/aesthetic services of the lake Vänern using the appropriated method of

valuation illustrated in the (table 2.1). This could be an opportunity to improve understanding

on the ecosystem services‟ value and put theory into practice within these services. The study

expects this exercise to be useful experience for the municipality and it can contribute likely

to formulate and evaluate environmental policies in the tourism industry development sector

in Kristinehamn Municipality. Some cases study on recreation value have been realised, e.g.

the recreation value of Hara Biosphere Reserve (Iran) using the Willingness –to-pay method

which can serve as reference.

The study underlined the importance of the environment flows concept as support to improve

the ecosystem resilience and recommends in fact promoting this concept by including it in the

local long-term planning and strategy in the region and in municipality in particular. The

study discussed the crucial role that plays the concept of environment flows -“the water

provided within a river or wetland to maintain ecosystems and the benefits they provide for

people”. The Brisbane declaration (2007) stipulates that estimate environment flow needs

everywhere immediately. “Even so, the progress made to date falls far short of the global

effort needed to sustain healthy freshwater ecosystems and the economies, livelihoods, and

human well-being that depend upon them”(Brisbane, 2007). With the environment

estimation, it can help the local action to study the lake‟s water balance and the water related

environment impact. Moreover it can improve the progress made so far by the Municipality

and the region in their plan of management of the lake Vänern both in term of quality and

quantity.

40

Acknowledgment

I am grateful to all the staff of the water and environment department who has strengthened

my understanding and knowledge to study science for sustainable development. This

influenced my strong preference for the environmental sciences. During my studies I

believed that environmental issues are complex to understand and find solutions to; hence

there is need for cooperation between various disciplines. This was a cornerstone for my

study in Linköping University. This study would not have been what it is without the

valuable support of my Supervisor Anna Jonsson. I am really grateful to her. I am grateful to

the staff of the Kristinehamn Municipality for their worm welcome addressed to my

personality. In particular, I am obliged to name some of the staff, Johanna Bengtson and

Stephan Johnsson who provided me an excellent support during the fieldwork in all aspects. I

am grateful to the respondents who accepted to participate voluntarily and created an

enthusiastic atmosphere during the discussion.

41

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45

Appendix

A) Questionnaires/ Interview for the ordinary public

1. What does the lake Vänern mean in your lifestyle/ practices?

1. Vad betyder Vänern för dig i ditt liv?

2. What services and goods drown below does the lake Vänern contribute to your lifestyle /

or your well- being?

Services

Food/Fisheries

Cultural/Recreational opportunities

Fishing Sport

Water supply-domestic and animals

Waste water drainage

Aesthetic

Autres

2. Vilka varor och tjänster, listade nedan, bidrar Vänern med till ditt liv och ditt

välbefinnande?

2a). what will be your reaction if one of the good and services above you benefit are lost

because the change of the water status (e.g. the quality water is not good, overgrowth plants

in the lake etc....) which can harm your direct and indirect use?

2a Hur skulle du reagera om någon av tjänsterna ovan försvann, till följd (direkt eller

indirekt) av en försämrad vattenstatus?

Vara/tjänst:

Matvaror (Fisk m.m.)

Möjligheter till kultur och rekreation

Sportfiske

Vattentäkt, för hushåll och djurhållning

Som mottagare av avloppsvatten

Estetiska värden

Annat

46

2b) Are you ready or have a willingness to contribute if the local Authority suggests to

improve the status of water? If yes, why are you too aware with the issue?

2b. Är du villig att bidra, på något sätt, om lokala myndigheter föreslår en satsning för att

förbättra vattnets status? Om ja: Vad är det som gör att du kan tänka dig det?

3. What do you do in your everyday life to keep the environment healthy (in and around

home)?

Vad gör du i ditt vardagsliv för att bevara en frisk naturmiljö? (i och runt hemmet)

3a) Are you familiar with the strategic plan to manage and protect the environment in your

municipality (e.g. lokalt tillväxtprogramm, kommunens översktsplan, EU-WDF)?

Känner du till vilka strategier och planer som finns i din kommun, för att bevara och främja

miljö och naturvärden?

3b) what importance affects you to this policy documents?

Vad tycker du är den viktigaste frågan i de strategierna?

4) Making change in our attitude /behaviour through awareness activities towards

helping/keeping the environment is for you more important than others policy measures? If

yes, why?

Håller du med om detta påstående: Satsningar för att skydda och främja miljön, genom att

förändra allmänhetens attitydoch handlande, är viktigare än andra politiska åtgärder.

Om ja: Varför?

5) Water quality is just as important as quantity for water management. What is your

comment?

Påstående:

I förvaltningen av vattenresurser är vattnets kvalitet lika viktig som den kvantitativa

tillgången på vatten. Vilken är din kommentar till detta påstående?

6) Is there anything else you would like to bring up, or ask about, before we finish the

interview?

Är det något annat du skulle vilja ta upp, eller fråga, innan vi avslutar intervjun?

B) Local authority

6) The concept of the sustainability suggests that we need to maintain the earth‟s ecosystems

so that they yield the greatest benefits to present generations, while maintaining the potential

to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations. What is your comment on this

statement?

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Påstående:

I begreppet hållbarhet formuleras tanken att vi måste bevara jordens ekosystem så att det

bidrar med största möjliga nytta för nuvarande generationer, samtidigt som potentialen att

uppfylla framtida generationers behov och strävanden bibehålls.

Vilken är din kommentar till detta påstående?

7) In your opinion, what kind policy measures and strategy should be undertaken such that

the concept above could become a reality and effective?

Enligt din åsikt – vilka politiska åtgärder och strategier bör genomföras för att

ovanstående koncept skall bli verklighet och fungera effektivt?

8a) Do you support the idea that the economic valuing ecosystem services/goods can be a

useful tool to improve our „natural capital‟ management and to raise awareness on

sustainable development plan?

Håller du med om iden att ett ekonomiskt system för att värdera ekosystemets tjänster och

varor kan vara ett användbart verktyg för att förbättra förvaltningen av vårt naturkapital

och för att väcka medvetenhet om planer för hållbar utveckling?

8b) How do you think these services should be paid for its value? E.g. recreational

opportunities, fisheries, production crops.

Vilken tror du är den rätta strategin för att bevara dessa tjänster och värdera dem efter

förtjänst?

8c) How do you appreciate the design of payments for ecosystem services(PES) as a strategy

to enhance incentives for biodiversity conservation?

Vad anser du om strategin att sätta ett pris på ekosystemets varor och tjänster, som ett verktyg

för att öka motivationen till att bevara den biologiska mångfalden?

9a). How can you appreciate the negative impact of subsides (e.g. to farmers for growing

certain crops) from national governments or regional bodies on the value of water?

Bedömer du att regionala och nationella myndigheters subventioner på till exempeljordbruk

kan påverka vattnets värde negativt?

9b) If the subsides should be abolished, the value of water will be arisen. Your comments.

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Påstående:

Om subventionerna avskaffades skulle vattnets värde stiga.

Vilken är din kommentar till detta påstående?

10. Is there anything else you would like to bring up, or ask about, before we finish the

interview?

Är det något annat du skulle vilja ta upp, eller fråga, innan